Where should the arrow be held before shooting?

Holding the arrow close to the nock before shooting is the best practice because it provides better control and stability. When you grip the arrow near the nock, you minimize the risk of damaging the fletching, which can affect the arrow's flight. This position also allows the archer to easily position the arrow onto the string and aligns the nock securely with the string itself, ensuring proper release during the shot.

In contrast, holding the arrow close to the fletching may lead to unintentional damage to the vanes; if the fletching is pulled or scraped, it can result in poor arrow flight. Gripping near the arrow rest does not provide optimal control, as it may shift the arrow’s position when drawing. Holding the arrow at arm's length can complicate the pre-shot routine and also potentially lead to loss of grip or orientation, which negatively affects focus and accuracy. Thus, holding the arrow close to the nock is the most effective and safe technique for preparing to shoot.